May 2023 - Shop In RI

Tom Lopatosky

Andrew Irby

Mark Berger

Brian Lowney

Julia Romano

Jenn Lombari

Patrick Burke

Susan Gazerro

Sarah Wessel Sales

Jeffrey Manzo

Jim Lombari

Jenn Lombari

Michael Belsito

Fashion Editor

Rosanna Ortiz

Photographers

Guillermo Garcia

Allyson Barth

Michael Belsito

part of that neighborhood for more than a century a er emigrating from Sicily and Naples, Italy. His family grew up close to the area, and when he opened his restaurant on 441 Atwells Ave. in Providence three years ago, it was a homecoming for him and his family.

work in Las Palmisano, and a well-known and has space (for the again,” he

restaurant employs a dozen serving dishes with a nod to the on several signature dishes, including their bone-in that are so big that they take ni and clams and their Italian also dive into their fresh sh na with pasta, or perhaps for homemade cannolis.

Perhaps their calling card Martinis,” among other specialty rosemary, ginger and other and taste.

Palmisano said that his goal rant is simple: “I want people house.”

He noted about how meals with visiting the local butcher walking to the garden to select the the local store to pick up a the restaurant strives to maintain this tradition because “farm to table” o ers the best quality

“I hope that when customers they enjoy a little piece of Italy he said.

e restaurant is open Monday, 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM, ursday, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and e bar remains open one hour

ey also cater events and For more details about these 273-5900. More details may be found by visiting their website at www.AnthonysonFederalHill.com.

10 Busiest Airports in the World

Atlanta’s airport is the busiest in the world for the second straight year and third of the last four, reports the Wall Street Journal. Harts eld Jackson Atlanta International Airport lost its title brie y during the weird travel days of the pandemic but has since returned to the top. e new stats are from Airports Council International, which released them this month. Overall, the number of world air travelers rose to 7 billion in 2022, up 54% from 2021, though that is still 19% below pre-pandemic gures of 2019. Here are the cities with the busiest airports in 2022, along with the number of passengers, and the percentage changes from 2021 and 2019:

Atlanta, 93.7 million, up 24% from 2021, down 15% (2019)

Dallas/Fort Worth, 73.4 million, up 18% (2021), down 2% (2019)

Denver, 69.3 million, up 18% (2021), up 0.4% (2019)

Chicago, 68.3 million, up 27% (2021), down 19% (2019)

Dubai, 66.1 million, up 127% (2021), down 24% (2019)

Los Angeles, 65.9 million, up 37% (2021), down 25% (2019)

Istanbul, 64.3 million, up 74% (2021), up 23% (2019)

London (Heathrow), 61.6 million, up 218% (2021), down 24% (2019)

New Delhi, 59.5 million, up 60% (2021), down 13% (2019)

Paris (Charles de Gaulle), 57.5 million, up 119% (2021), down 25% (2019)

TravelTips

The World’s for the Faint

Shop In RI Selects Sugarbush Resort, Vermont as their #1 Skiing Getaway on the East Coast!

Shop In RI Selects: Sanibel Island, Florida as their #1 secret getaway destination.

Feel in need o those Christmas chanics ags neering on non-stop walk

There are several reasons why you should consider visiting Sanibel Island, Florida. Here are a few:

Beautiful Beaches: Sanibel Island is known for its pristine beaches, which are considered some of the best in the world. The island’s beaches offer a wide range of activities, from shelling and swimming to kayaking and fishing.

Wildlife: Sanibel Island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sea turtles, dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. The island is also home to the J.N. ”Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, which offers visitors a chance to see wildlife up close.

Sugarbush is an overlooked gem among its peers, with many skiers heading to nearby Killington, Stowe, or Mad River Glen over this double mountain resort. So why shouldn’t you do the same? To put it simply, Sugarbush o ers practically everything that those more popular ski areas boast, minus the crowds. So if you fancy schussing down a freshly groomed slope without queuing for a lift or dodging snowploughers this could be just the place for you!

It’s a more L’Agulhas, sia—roughly Appalachian encountered via bridge, boat or ferry A person could three years miles a day), or obtain able for the cold, as well tions through like South the physical than 385,000 same amount, down Everest

Outdoor Activities: In addition to its beaches, Sanibel Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as biking, hiking, and nature walks. The island also has several parks and nature preserves, including the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and the Sanibel Island Lighthouse.

Woman United Air

Relaxation: Sanibel Island is a great place to unwind and relax. The island has a laidback atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to kick back and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Overall, Sanibel Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. It’s a great destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Aircraft Container Holding $15M Worth of Gold, Valuables Stolen

Terrain: The resort is made up of two interconnected mountains, Lincoln Peak, where the majority of trails are, and Mount Ellen. Other lower peaks include Castle Rock, Gadd Peak and North Lynx. For the type of gnarly terrain you would expect from Mad River Glen, just hop aboard the Castle Rock Double chair to Castle Rock. From the top at 3,812 ft, you’ll have the steep double black chutes of Lift Line and Rumble to get stuck into. If clocking up maximum vertical drop is more your thing then you’ll find the slopes here laid out much bet ter for top-to-bottom shredding than at Killington. Even if you ski all 111 trails here, there’s also 2,000 ac of backcountry to explore in the Slide Brook Basin area!

Authorities say $15 million worth of gold and other valuables were stolen in a heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport. e airport is o en used to ship gold mined in Ontario, the BBC reports. A “high-value” aircra container arrived on a plane that night and was unloaded and taken to a cargo holding facility; from there, police believe, the 5-square-foot container was nabbed. No one has yet been arrested in the the , the CBC reports. ere were reports that organized crime might be involved, but a local police spokesperson said it was too early to call it a “professional” job. ieves accessed the public side of a warehouse that a third-party leases, the Greater Toronto

Town: If all that wasn’t enough, Sugarbush is generally a notch cheaper than pricey Stowe, but not at the sacrifice of luxury. For lavish lodgings, look no further than Lincoln Peak Village. For these reasons and more, when it comes to the most practical ski destination in Vermont, Sugarbush is a fantasic choice for a winter weekend getaway!

4 Shop In RI

You can’t always a domestic get a complimentary man on a went to the a ”stinging dropped a the oor, snag the critter.

Airports Authority said, noting that the area involved is outside the authority’s primary security line.

Authorities agree that there is no threat to public safety or airport security, and airport operations were not disrupted. Police are calling it an “isolated,” as well as “rare,” incident. ey have not revealed where the cargo came from, where it was headed, or on which airline it had traveled.

”A er learning on ight 1554 lanta was stung ponded immediately MedLink provided medical said. ” e local hospital. customer to

Netflix Used a Man’s Photo Without Permission$1 Million Lawsuit Ensues

There’s a Fresh Geyser Mystery in Yellowstone

It’s unclear why the Steamboat Geyser had a record year

e Hatchet Wielding Hitchhiker, a documentary on Net ix, debuted earlier this year, detailing the rise and fall of Caleb McGillvary, a Canadian who once went viral a er helping an assault victim, then was later convicted of murder in an unrelated case. But it was the photo of a completely di erent man, ICU respiratory therapist Taylor Hazlewood of Kentucky, that’s now spurred a lawsuit, with Hazlewood claiming the streaming service li ed his picture without permission from his Instagram page and ”tarnished” his reputation by using it in the lm. Per Hazlewood’s complaint led in Dallas County, Texas, Net ix used the photo in question—one of him posing with a hatchet, which he says is a shoutout to his favorite book when he was a kid, Hatchet by Gary Paulsen - twice in the documentary. One of those times included toward the end, when a narrator’s voice can be heard asking: “Is this a guardian angel or a stone-cold killer?” Hazlewood says friends started contacting him soon a er the lm aired. “Bro why are you in that?” one wrote to him. “ ey put your picture up with a murderer lol,” another noted. ” ey even blur some peoples faces in the doc too, wonder why they wouldnt do yours.” Another person put it more bluntly, per the Washington Post: ”Did they steal your photo? How did you get on there?”

It’s the tallest active geyser on the planet— with an emphasis on “active.” From 2015 to 2017, it didn’t erupt at all. ere was another largely quiet period from 1911 to 1961, but in 2018 it logged a record-setting 32 eruptions, a feat it has crushed this year with 47 eruptions, per the US Geological Survey. Why? Good question, and one that hasn’t been answered. It’s one on a long list of geyser mysteries, in fact. e gey ser-research eld is a thin one, and as Yel lowstone National Park’s hydrologist explained the area beneath Steamboat hasn’t been mapped. However, seismic sensors there have revealed that the geyser’s water source may sit as deep as 130 feet.

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THE TOP EARNING MUSICIANS OF THE DECADE

Hazlewood wants to know the same, especially since he has no ties to McGillvary, per his complaint led April 10. e 27-year-old is “beyond angry that Net ix would implicate and connect him to such a salacious and infamous story and individual,” his suit notes. e complaint adds that Hazlewood now is plagued by “a constant fear of losing future employment or relationships because of people believing he is dangerous or untrustworthy.” He’s seeking more than $1 million in damages. Meanwhile, McGillvary, who was convicted in 2019 of rst-degree murder and sentenced to nearly six decades behind bars, has also sued Net ix, claiming the documentary about himself “ruthlessly exploited a hero’s life story for money.”

Most other geysers seem to be fueled by shallower reserves; deeper equals warmer, so that could be a factor in Steamboat’s ability to propel water to heights of more than 300 feet. Michael Poland with the USGS earlier this year said it’s possible that increased snowfall in Yellowstone of late has led to more groundwater to fuel the geyser. What scientists are saying is that there’s no link between the increased activity and any potential looming eruption of Yellowstone’s supervolcano. “Yellowstone has an incredible geyser system that is unrelated to magmatic activity—other than the magmatic system basically providing heat,” tweeted one volcanologist. USA Today noted that the Waimangu Geyser in New Zealand has managed to shoot water taller than Steamboat has, but it’s been

For the 4th Time, Pepsi Takes Aim at Coke’s Sprite

Pepsi wants a piece of Coca-Cola’s lemon-lime pie with its new so drink, Starry, which it’s marketing as for ”a generation of irreverent optimists.” Bloomberg reports that this marks the company’s fourth try at taking on Sprite’s dominance. Coca-Cola’s clear soda (both regular and diet) claims 75% of US lemon-lime soda sales. PepsiCo rst tried with Teem in the ’50s. en it introduced Slice in 1984, following that with Sierra Mist in 1999. As hard as it may have been before to make a product that holds its own against Sprite, Starry also enters a market in decline, as fewer people drink soda, and lemon-lime sodas are just 10% of all so drink sales.

PepsiCo’s rivalry with Coca-Cola is intensifying in other ways, as

the company has introduced other new avors and twists like PepsiCoowned Lipton’s hard iced teas—to their beverage lineups. Coke has responded to the Starry challenge in direct ways, such as the limited-edition summer avor, Sprite Lymonade Strawberry. Starry is experiencing a mixed reception from consumers: Some think it’s better than predecessor Sierra Mist, while harsher soda critics go to the trouble of recording themselves pouring it out. ere’s already been requests that Starry’s lemon-lime be accompanied by new avors, such as tropical or cherry.

Tom Brady 2000 - Round 6 #199

Tedy Bruschi 1996 - Round 3 #86

Rob Gronkowski 2010 - Round 2 #42

Julian Edelman 2009 - Round 7 #232

Association Kitchen Cabinet Updates: May 2023

In my column just a few months back, I unveiled the RI Hospitality Association (RIHA) Kitchen Cabinet: a think tank of leading owners, operators, and general managers from myriad industries who have an impact on Rhode Island’s vibrant hospitality industry.

Since then, the RIHA Kitchen Cabinet has convened three times at member locations throughout the state, focusing on each of our representative industries (lodging, foodservice, ancillary segments) within RIHA’s 900+ membership.

The first meeting served as an opportunity to get participants on the same page and in the same room, and to introduce the Kitchen Cabinet and its goals. At each meeting, discussions were focused on industry issues, rather than individual issues; these listening sessions encouraged participants to hear and consider viewpoints and perspectives from other affected stakeholders.

A primary goal of each meeting is to identify and chart individual ‘pain points’ from each member’s perspective, and to also identify the common areas that affect the industry as a whole. This exercise helps us to determine which issues/topics should be addressed through advocacy, best-practice education, and/or identifying vendors who have solutions, which was the focus of our meeting in April. [Example --- For the issue of employee recruitment/retention, what solutions does RIHA/ the RI Hospitality Education Foundation (RIHEF) already have available? What additional solutions can we develop or deliver?

A large focus of our Cabinet meetings includes our advocacy and legislative efforts. We are currently tracking hundreds of bills that have the potential

to affect our industry, but the most pressing currently is House Bill 5590 which is aimed at eliminating the tip credit, thereby increasing the tipped, hourly wage in RI to $14.95. It goes without saying that an increase in labor costs of this magnitude would be devastating to the state’s vibrant restaurant industry.

In part, due to our conversations with the Kitchen Cabinet a endees, RIHA firmly stands in opposition to any proposed legislation that seeks to end the tipped wage. Federal and state law already requires that if a tipped worker does not make at least the minimum wage in tips during a shift, their employer must compensate them for the difference. Thus, the very least a tippedwage employee will ever receive is the state’s current minimum wage, which is $13.00 per hour in Rhode Island as of January 1, 2023.

From the ongoing staffing shortage resulting from ‘The Great Resignation,’ to unresolved supply-chain disruptions, and increased product and operational costs due to rampant inflation, our industry’s operators cannot afford to absorb a dramatic and unnecessary escalation of their labor costs, too. Raising the tipped wage would certainly increase labor costs, which often results in employers cu ing back on workers’ hours and even eliminating positions altogether, effectively hurting those that this legislation intends to help. There is also evidence suggesting that these effects trickle down into consumer costs, as businesses are forced to raise prices to maintain profitability.

As the Kitchen Cabinet continues its important work, we will undoubtedly collaborate to address more and more of the pain points and issues that are facing our industry. Rhode Island’s hospitality industry is a job creator, economic driver, and one of the state’s top tax generators. We need to be supported - not underminedin order to protect the best interests of our workers and operators, and will continue our efforts to ensure the success of our industry.

For more information on the RIHA Kitchen Cabinet, and for details on upcoming RIHA/RIHEF events, please visit: www.rihospitality.org.

Dale J. Venturini RI Hospitality

ByDale J. Venturini, President/CEO, RI Hospitality Association (RIHA)

What’s Up With That?

A study conducted on Swedish jackpot lottery winners found that men were more likely to get married after winning, while women were more likely to get divorced.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

In ancient Rome, people struck by lightning were thought to be punished by the gods and were denied a proper burial.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Any month of that begins on a Sunday will have a Friday the 13th.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

To your brain, love is essentially an addiction, and breakups cause it to go through withdrawal.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

The Guinness World Record for “longest kiss” is 58 hours, 35 minutes and 58 seconds.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Earth is the only known planet where re can burn. No other planets have enough oxygen.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

70% of Americans surveyed don’t want Donald Trump or Joe Biden to run for president in 2024.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

30 to 40 minutes of running for ve days a week can reduce cellular aging by nine years.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

In 1790,theaverageAmericanconsumed5.8 gallons of alcohol a year.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Dwellingonyourproblems,mistakes,and weaknesses increases your risk of mental health problems.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

and made possible by the following businesses.

A Gracious Soul

Bags by Iris Besos

Bone Appetit Dog Store

Closet Factory

Colonial Shoe

Craig Butzbach

Pinnacle Financial Group

Embrace Home Loans

Fresco

Greenwich Bay Brokers

Greenwich Odeum

Hairloom Coiffure

Hair Plus

Mott & Chace/Sotheby’s Intl. Realty

Providence Ballet Theatre

Providence Oyster Bar

Raise the Bar Nutrition

Residential Properties

Safehouse

Shop RI Magazine

Silver Spoon Bakery

St. Luke’s Episcopal Church

The Gamm Theater

The Green Door

Trap

Howard

Hill & Harbour Veterinary

Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy

Konnect Dance Company

Notes from the Cooker, Traveler, Master Gardener and Serious Sipper of Creative Cocktails

Al Milukas

DEVILED EGGS WITH BBQ CHICKEN AND COLE SLAW

is was a huge hit when I brought them to a recent neighborhood party. Imagine the best of a deviled egg and a BBQ chicken sandwich, and you’ve got this appetizer that rocks in more ways than one. is is a great appetizer you can make ahead of time. I boil the eggs and make the cole slaw the day before, then keep them in the fridge. Even the chicken can be cooked the day before and then warmed through before assembling right before your guests arrive. Be sure to make a lot of them…they’ll go faster than the hard-boiled eggs in “Cool Hand Luke!”

is recipe is gluten-free, as long as you use GF soy sauce.

INGREDIENTS:

For the chicken and BBQ sauce:

•3 cups ketchup (I use Heinz organic)

•1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

•2 tablespoons soy sauce (I use La Choy: it’s gluten-free)

•1 teaspoon hot sauce (I use Frank’s Red Hot)

•1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons brown sugar

•1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts

For the cole slaw:

•2 tablespoons mayonnaise (always Hellman’s)

•1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar

•1/2 teaspoon sugar (I use organic cane sugar)

•2 cups finely shredded cabbage

For the deviled eggs:

•6 hard-boiled eggs

•1/4 cup mayonnaise

•1 tablespoon mustard (I use Gulden’s)

DIRECTIONS:

Pre-heat the oven to 250 degrees.

Combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, hot sauce, and brown sugar in a oven-proof pot with a lid. Mix well, then add the chicken breasts, making sure they’re immersed in the sauce. Cook low and slow in the oven for about 3–4 hours.

When the chicken is cooked through, shred the meat with 2 forks. Set it aside, but keep it warm.

Combine all the cole slaw ingredients in a bowl, mixing well, and place them in the fridge.

For perfectly hard-boiled eggs, place the eggs in a pot of cold water, and turn the heat on high. Just before the water starts to boil, put a lid on the pot and turn the heat o . Let the eggs sit in the hot water for 15 minutes. Once cooked, keep the eggs in the fridge.

Slice the eggs in half and place the yolks in a bowl with the mayonnaise and mustard. Mix well and keep in the fridge.

To assemble, take a teaspoon of the mayo/mustard/yolk mixture and place it in the cavity of one of the egg halves. Place another teaspoon of the shredded chicken on top (I like it warm, to counter the cold of the mayo and cole slaw), drizzling a little of the BBQ sauce that you cooked the chicken with on the meat. en place a teaspoon of the cole slaw on top of the chicken. Serve immediately!

Fitness Tips

Scientific Reasons To Lose Soy In Your Diet

By: Stacie Venagro

By Stacie Venagro - 2017 World Miss Fitness America Pro

Welcome fall! I don’t know about you, but I’m looking forward tocoolerweather,sweaters,apple picking,andpumpkineverything!It’s alsothebesttime

I read an article recently that’s important for everyone to take a moment to read. I’ve never been a fan of soy for a number of reasons but here are a few samples for you to check out.

www.thehealthyhomeeconomist. com/170-scientific-reasons-tolose-the-soy-in-your-diet/

tosavorthetime

Soy Wake Up Call #4

Estrogens consumed in the diet at low concentrations were found to stimulate breast cells much like DDT to increase enzymatic activity which leads to breast cancer (Environmental Health Perspectives 1997 Apr;105 (Suppl 3):633-636).

Soy Wake Up Call #5

spentoutdoorsbefore colder weather comes. If you haven’t

e soy iso avones genistein and daidzein appear to stimulate existing breast cancer growth indicating risk in consuming soy products if a woman has breast cancer. (Annals of Pharmacotherapy 2001 Sep;35(9):118-21).

Soy Wake Up Call #6

already it’s a great time to focus your fitness routine a couple of times a week getting out of the house. New England is well known for beautiful fall scenery, so why not get out and discover something new.

170SCIENTIFICREASONS TO LOSE THE SOY IN YOUR DIETCheck your breakfast shake, is it “soy” based? I’ve been sharing this information for a long while. I am saddened by the number of new clients that come to me a er experiencing negative symptoms on soy.

Be careful folks. It’s dangerous out there! You really need to do your research and be on your toes at all times when it comes to nutritional advice even from someone in a white coat!

Direct evidence that soy iso avones genistein and daidzein suppress the pituitary-thyroid axis in middle-aged rats fed 10 mg soy iso avones per kilo a er only 3 weeks as compared with rats eating regular rat chow (Experimental Biology and Medicine 2010 May;235(5):590-8).

For those of you who just sat down because you are so taken aback by the notion that soy is not actually the health-food you thought it was, there are 170 scienti c reasons to back up this assertion.

Soy Wake Up Call #7

Exercise doesn’t have to monotonous, there are plenty of great places to hike locally. There’s a wonderful book called Weekend Hikes in Rhode Island by Ken Weber that I was introduced to awhile back. He does an excellent job of breaking down each destination with detailed directions, approximate walking time, and the distance. A couple that are great for fall are Napatree Point and Browning Mill Pond- Roaring Brook. These are just a couple of the many that are close by. Always be safe when hiking new areas and do your research prior to heading out. As always never hike close to dark. If hiking new areas isn’t your thing take a walk or run in your neighborhood or local park.

Please note that fermented soy in small, condimental amounts as practiced in traditional Asian cultures is ne for those who have healthy thyroid function. Only miso, tempeh, natto and soy sauce (IF traditionally brewed) fall under this category. In addition, if you want to sprinkle a few edamame on your salad or have a few small cubes of tofu in your miso soup from time to time, that is ne too. Just don’t make it a regular part of your diet!

Don’t eat soy when you are pregnant ladies! Scienti c research has shown that the developing male fetus which is exposed to soy phytoestrogens may su er from higher susceptibility to prostate cancer later in life (Prostate 1994;24(2):67-78).

Soy Wake Up Call #8

Get your family involved in fitness! If you don’t have children take the dogs along with you. Children love to get outside and explore nature. There’s plenty to explore to stimulate the mind and get some physical activity in. When you’re having fun exercise doesn’t feel like a task. Most dogs are always up for a walk, you can train them to run while you’re training g yourself. Alternate between jogging and walking in 30 second intervals to start off and work your way up from there. Bring water for you and your pet to keep everyone hydrated.

Keep that soy away from your daughters! Dietary genistein (soy phytoestrogen) in developing female rats had the e ect of signi cantly accelerated puberty (Toxicol Sci 1999 Oct;51(2):23644).

If you have any sort of thyroid issues going on, however, it is really the best policy to avoid all soy all the time as soy is a potent goitrogen (thyroid suppressor) even if fermented.

Soy Wake Up Call #9

Enjoy the beginning of this beautiful season and stay motivated. Just because it’s getting cooler out doesn’t mean that it’s not a good time to start working out. Anytime is a great time to start!

Stacie Venagro Fitness is located at 161 Macklin Street in Cranston.

Soy Wake Up Call #1

A 1991 study found that eating only 2 TBL/day of roasted and pickled soybeans for 3 months to healthy adults who were receiving adequate iodine in their diet caused thyroid suppression with symptoms of malaise, constipation, sleepiness, and goiters (Nippon Naibunpi Gakkai Zasshi 1991, 767: 622-629)!

Still think munching on edamame instead of popcorn is a healthy habit?

Soy Wake Up Call #2

Six premenopausal women with normal menstrual cycles were given 45 mg of soy iso avones per day. is is equivalent to only 1-2 cups of soy milk or 1/2 cup of soy our! A er only one month, all of the women experienced delayed menstruation with the e ects similar to tamoxifen, the anti-estrogen drug given to women with breast cancer (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1994 Sep;60(3):333-340).

Soy Wake Up Call #3

Dietary estrogens in the form of soy foods were found to have the potential to disrupt the endocrine system with the e ects in women similar to taking the breast cancer drug tamoxifen (Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine 1995 Jan;208(1):51-9).

Hey guys! Soy protein powder strips your masculinity! A study of 12 men aged 18 years and older experienced a 19% drop in serum testosterone in only 28 days when supplemented with 56 grams of soy protein powder over that same time period (Prev 2007;16:829–33).

Soy Wake Up Call #10

Do NOT feed soy formula to your babies! Female newborns who are orally exposed to genisin, the glycosylated form of genistein (soy phytoestrogen) experienced harm to the reproductive system in the form of “delayed vaginal opening… abnormal estrous cycles, decreased fertility, and delayed parturition.” (Environmental Health Perspective 2009 Dec;117(12):1883-9).

Convinced yet? I don’t know about you, but ten reasons is plenty for me! Still interested to see the remaining 160 reasons? Dr. Kaayla Daniel, author of the must read e Whole Soy Story, has compiled the rest of the list for you at www.westonaprice.org/soyalert/studies-showing-adverse-e ects-of-iso avones

Source article: www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/170-scienti c-reasons-tolose-the-soy-in-your-diet

AGILITY FOR MOBILITY

Forward reaching lunge - better known as spidermans- From a standing position, step forward and try to bring your same side elbow to your ankle. Repeat for 10 reps each side with a 3 to 5 second hold.

Backwards lunges to a reach over - From a standing position, step one leg back and reach your opposite arm over your opposite shoulder. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

By Kevin Kearns | Burn With Kearns

As we age, we all know that we don’t move as fluidly as we did when we were younger. The days of going into the gym and banging out bench presses and deadlifts without a warm up are now a thing of the past. This could work in your 20s and 30s, but once you approach the 40 mark, your body may not allow for this type of activity.

When we are young, our joints are more flexible and pliable. They are not the same as when our bodies were younger, so you get the idea. That cute photo of a baby lying on its back holding its foot in its mouth is no longer possible as our bodies age. As we age, our joints are literally drying out. The synovial fluid in the joints is decreasing every year. This fluid acts to keep the joint lubricated during the life of the joint. Each of the joints in the human body contains synovial fluid. This fluid is a thick viscous liquid that “greases” the joint and allows for ease of mobility. In joint diseases like arthritis, the synovium of the joint is the main place where inflammation occurs.

This means that your joints are getting stiffer every day. It’s Mother Nature’s little joke, but there’s not much you can do about it. Or is there?

Any time you watch professional athletes, they are always doing some type of warm up or movement before they get on the field or the court. Why shouldn’t we? If it makes sense for them, it should make sense for us.

Here are some simple concepts you can remember to enhance your movements in the gym. Warm up properly with what we call movement prep. It’s a scientific fact that we move better when our muscles are healed up. So, spend the time warming up. I will give you a sample warm up in this article.

Movement prep 1

Inch worms - In a push-up like position, inch your feet into your hands until your body is in a trianglelike shape. Then reach the hands forward until you are in a push-up like position again . Repeat for 10 reps, with a 3 to 5 second hold at the top of the movement.

Airplanes - Standing with both feet together, lean forward and kick one leg back towards the ceiling and drive your heel up. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

Lateral lunges - Form a parallel stance step out to the side and lean into the leg that you step out with. Then, step back to the middle and repeat on the side. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

What the 40 plus guy needs to know about this concept.

Drop lunges - From a parallel stance, take one leg and shoot it behind you on the floor at a 45 degree angle. Now, drop down into a semi squat-like position. Next, return and repeat on the other side. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

Scorpions - Lying on the floor with your chest down, take your opposite heel and rotate your lower body, as you try to touch your opposite heel to your opposite hand. Then, return and repeat on the other side. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

Calf plank - In a push-up like position, put one foot behind the other. Now, bend the knee towards the ground and then straighten the leg back out. Repeat for 10 reps each side, with a 3 to 5 second hold.

Next, we will cover some agility drills. There are some mobility drills that you can do anywhere and anytime. They are better known as ‘grass drills.’ It has been said that “if you don’t move, you don’t improve. “ That can also be said for your joints. If you don’t move them, you can lose them fairly quickly. There are many different ways to perform agility work. From other grass drills like the above to uses of cones, agility ladders, and other apparatus. One of our favorites is the agility ladder for lower and upper body. Yes I did say the upper body, as well. The agility ladder is a great tool for the 40-plus guy or girl to add to their arsenal of exercises, for several reasons.

Versatile - If you can think, you can do it on the ladder. Some of my favorite drills were made up by my kids. Why ? They are thinking about playing and moving, versus being all stiff in the workout. This lends itself to the quote, “When you train the way you play, you play the way you train.”

Inexpensive - The cost is nominal and the result is forever.

Portable - There is no place that the ladder can’t go. You can put it in your gym bag if your gym does not have one.

Great cardio - It’s just as good, if not better, than warming up on a bike or treadmill. I, personally, think it’s much better.

Teaches eye/foot coordination - This is another bonus for this piece of equipment.

Great for a warm up - It’s quick and effective for a warm up.

Mimics athletic moves - Many of the movements are used in sports. For the weekend warrior dads and moms that play sports, they will be a step ahead of the other team .

It’s functional - It translates into different moves you might need everyday and not even know it.

Here are some sample drills

2 feet in on the forward - Step forward on your toes into each box, as you move down the length of the ladder.

2 feet in 2 feet out on the lateral - With both feet in the box, step 2 feet out and then back in, as you advance forward.

High knees - Step one foot into each box, as you run through the ladder.

Lateral push up - With both hands in one box, start by moving your arms and legs in 1 -2 type format, down the length of the ladder.

Last concept - Cool down. It is imperative that as a 40 plus adult, you stretch after your workout. I can not stress this enough. You have to get in there and stretch. Whether it’s yoga moves or stretches from high school, just do them. It won’t just make your joints and muscles happy and more pliable, it will also decrease muscle soreness and tightness for the next day .

So, here’s a great way for the 40 plus adult to stay mobile and agile, as the clock keeps ticking forward.

Coach Kevin Kearns, FounderBurnwithkearns.com

Founder - MMA Fighter Fit

2012 Top UFC Magazine S and C Coaches

SPRING/SUMMER FITNESS TIPS

By: Susan Gazerro

Here we are again, spring is here and summer is just around the corner. For many, the New Year’s resolutions may have already fallen by the waist side, but that’s ok. is article will help you get back on track before you hit the beach. Following are some tips to not only get beach-body ready, but to stay fit and healthy all year long.

e first is to drink plenty of water.

is is something I have wri en about over and over. Water is one of the most important keys to burning fat and building muscle. Many of our bodily functions depend on water, and when you’re not drinking enough, you’re breaking down essential functions. Water is a natural detoxifier. Water is used by our bodies to flush out toxins and cushion joints and vital organs such as the brain and spinal cord; even our blood is composed of around 90% water. e recommendation still holds that we should be drinking at least 64 ozs of water each day.

e second tip is also something I have wri en about in many articles. Walk more!

ere are so many benefits to walking. Not only does walking promote cardiovascular health by ge ing your blood pumping, but it also helps keep your bones strong, promotes flexibility,

helps burn fat, and is great for your lungs.

e third tip is to add more weights to your exercise routine.

If you really want to get serious about losing weight and/or building muscle, do more weights and resistance training. You do not need to li heavy weights. I have said, and I will say again that weights and resistance training activate muscle. When the muscles are activated, you continue to burn fat, long a er the exercise is over.

e fourth tip is to do some High Intensity Interval Training, be er known as HIIT.

is means to do an exercise at a high intensity, but follow it by a short rest. For example, you could do 30 seconds of intense jump rope, followed by 15 seconds of rest. You continue this cycle, switching up exercises until you’re done.

e great thing about HIIT is that you don’t have to put in hours at the gym to see results. Ten to 15 minutes a day will do the trick, but you have to be intense.

e fi h tip is to watch your diet!

Exercise is extremely important to your overall health, and yes, helping you achieve that beach

body, but if you’re not feeding your body correctly. or should I say, if you’re feeding it incorrectly, you can exercise 24 hours a day, but the number on the scale won’t go down. Yes, it is still important because you are working your insides, but again, your weight won’t change. To clean up your diet, the number one thing I tell people is to lose the so drinks! Soda, even diet soda, causes weight gain. Next, cut out or at least cut back on sugar and junk (like cakes, icecream, cookies). Reduce your intake of white colored food (white carbs that turn into sugar and don’t burn fat), instead load up on fresh meat, fish, veggies, and fruit.

e sixth tip is to get more sleep. We could all probably all use a li le more sleep. In this crazy, rushed world, most of us are not ge ing enough sleep. Ge ing the proper amount of sleep is essential to losing weight and being physically fit and healthy. is is because ge ing the right amount of sleep reduces stress levels, promotes weight loss, and improves your overall mood. Sleeping at least eight hours a night has been shown to increase weight loss in numerous studies. Also, if you are a workout fanatic, your body uses your sleep time to recover and build muscle a er working out.

Number seven, do yoga and stretch. Stretching is an excellent way to calm your mind and increase your flexibility. Yoga and stretching has been practiced for over 5000 years. A few benefits are that you will strengthen and tone every muscle in your

body, you will improve your mental health, tone your muscles, and again increase your flexibility. It can also help improve your lung, cardiovascular, and circulatory health.

e eighth tip is to join a class. is makes you have accountability. is plays a huge role in the success of losing weight and ge ing fit. People are typically more likely to stick to something when they are being held accountable and have friends or family running along beside them. If you don’t want to take a class, at least find a workout buddy to help keep each other accountable.

What’s most important is to stick with a plan. Don’t give up, nor get discouraged. People always say that it’s so easy to gain weight and so hard to lose it. I disagree. Neither will happen overnight. Both take time, give it time. You may miss your dessert or so drink in the beginning, but once you lose a couple of pounds, that will be the incentive to keep going.

Forget about the bikini. Love your body for what it is. Life is too short to worry about a couple of pounds or a dimple, or any imperfection, for that ma er. I once read, “don’t strive to look like the model in the magazine, even the model doesn’t look like that.” Put on that bikini, strut out onto the beach, and feel confident and beautiful… simply, because you are!

“Don’t let your mind bully your body!”

Is Not Your Ordinary Cannabis Dispensary

By Paul Lonardo

Aura of Rhode Island is fundamentally very di erent from the rest of the cannabis dispensaries you will nd in our area because they are family owned & operated and they do not have a cultivation center; essentially, making them the ‘mom & pop’ pot shop in the area. eir business model is solely based on retail sales, with a strong emphasis on customer service.

We are striving to create a boutique-esque experience, with a mission “to o er quality products at great prices,” says Andrea Biszko, who handles public relations & human resources. “We deal with a variety of cultivators across Rhode Island, from the largest, most well-known cultivators to the smaller grows,” she continued.

For this reason, Aura has one of the largest selections available, and they are continually bringing in new and di erent products for their customers, with more options than the other larger dispensaries.

“We order small batches, so our products are always fresh, and our menu is constantly changing, but we still strive to keep store staples and customer favorites on the menu, as well,” explained Andrea.

Due to Aura of Rhode Island’s solid commitment to excellence and product consistency, they frequently go out to visit all the cultivators they buy from. It’s a form of quality control that they conduct to ensure that everything is being done properly and that the products are top tier.

Colin Chabot, who oversees marketing at Aura, is also a member of the procurement team, who takes the extra step of visiting and working directly with cultivators to ensure products are top notch and the store can properly market the new products and suppliers. Colin has been involved with cannabis since 2010, and he knows what to look for.

“Even though we do not have a cultivation, we are actively involved in what we sell every step of the way, seeing with our own eyes that cultivating & processing cannabis is being done the correct way and that the nished products we’re selling to our customers is truly something that we can stand behind,” says Colin.

Aura’s procurement team will go all over Rhode Island to nd the newest and best products since cannabis is an industry that is growing rapidly and constantly changing. Aura is cognizant of this and they are ready to meet these challenges, as well as the demands of their customers.

“We ask a lot of questions,” Colin says. “A er we visit a cultivator, our team meets to make a determination about whether we will work with them and what products would be the best addition to our menu. We have a very well-rounded team, and we really try to put our heads together to come up with the best possible outcomes for both cultivators and Aura. e ultimate goal is getting a quality product that we can o er at the best price.”

Aura of Rhode Island is for both medical and recreational users of cannabis, with a separate but identical menu for both, which includes ower, edibles, vaporizes, and concentrates, among many other products.

“Many people don’t realize that all you need is an ID to come in,” Colin says. “A medical card is no longer required.”

Rhode Island currently has reciprocity for medical cards, so if you are from out of state, your medical card will be honored if you provide a valid form of identi cation, issued by a government agency (state, federal, military etc.), showing you are 18+. Recreational customers also need to provide a valid government issued ID proving they are at least 21 years old, which now allows nonmedical customers to purchase any of the products available at Aura of Rhode Island.

Aura of Rhode Island is located at 1136 Lonsdale Avenue in Central Falls. e dispensary is open Mondayursday, 9:30 AM to 7 PM, Friday and Saturday, 9:30 AM to 8 PM, and Sundays, 11 AM to 5 PM.

For their full product menu, to schedule a consult, or to talk with someone about any questions you may have, visit their website or give them a call!

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provide to further support children with cancer and their families. Just a couple years ago, Izzy’s parents openedTheSurgicalWaitingRoom, which is on the second floor of the hospital, near the pediatric IC Room.

“It’s also a purple room,” Mulhern says. “Snacks andcoffee are always available.There are windowswithbeautifulviewsoverlookingthe city. It’s a place where parents can come and wait while their children are in surgery, and be comfortable.

For the owners of Village Paws in Greenville, they have been “IZspired” to organize a donation drive to benefit The Izzy Foundation. For the entire month of May, they are seeking non-perishable snacks such as granola bars, chips, fruit snacks, pudding cups, microwavable macaroni & cheese and popcorn, Pop Tarts, soups, crackers, and other individually wrapped snacks. They could also use board games, easy crafts, card games like Uno, Go Fish. Old Maid. Playdough. Classic standbyslike Legos, puzzles,coloringbooks, crayons, pens, Mad Libs, soft toys for siblings, rock painting, and books are always welcome.

“We have our own fundraising events that we do, but the community has been great and it’s really starting to snowball,” Mulhern says, adding, “It’s wonderful because we can’t do what we do, supplying what we do to the families, and be able to grow, without the donation drives that we have from people. It’s amazing.”

They feed up to fifty families a day, so the funding goes very quickly, and without the generosity of so many people, none of it would be possible. For that, Mulhern and everyone with The Izzy Foundation is grateful and appreciative.

The Izzy Foundation also provides scholarships to cancer survivors and people with life-altering medical conditions, as well as their siblings.

To help Village Paws’ succeed with their donation drivebenefiting TheIzzyFoundation,drop by

their shop at 615

in

or call Jules Martins or Kristine

at 401949-5000.

For questionsabout ways to volunteeror to donatedirectly to TheIzzyFoundation, visittheirwebsite theizzyfoundation.org/ volunteer or contact Carla Mulhern at Carla@ theizzyfoundation.org or Deb Thompson at Deb@theizzyfoundation.org.

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Financial Guide to Inheriting a Home Due to a Death in the Family

By: Carrie McPherson

If you stand to inherit a property, such as a family home or vacation condo, the gift presents a critical financial decision: whether to sell, rent or keep it. While the inheritance itself may be a blessing, often it’s the result of losing a loved one who’s passed away, which could complicate matters from an emotional and practical standpoint. Do you wish to hold onto to the property for sentimental reasons? Is it financially possible to maintain it if you already own or rent a residence? Do you own it outright, or is it a split inheritance with other beneficiaries (e.g., siblings) whose own financial situations and priorities will need to be taken into account?

Sorting through these and other questions can feel overwhelming, but don’t let that stop you. As with most major decisions, it helps to start with the facts. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Set up an appraisal to learn the property’s value. Hire a professional appraiser who can determine the fair market value of the property on the date you assumed ownership. Having a solid idea of the value can not only help you decide whether to sell or keep the home today, but it can establish a cost basis should you decide to sell it in the future.

2. Calculate the cost to maintain the property.

If you decide to keep it, the property’s mortgage payments, annual property taxes and utility bills will be your responsibility – but it doesn’t stop there. Make sure to factor in other regular expenses, such as yard maintenance, snow removal, and housekeeping to get a realistic picture of what it will take financially to keep the home. Also, if in doubt, check with your attorney to ensure there are no tax liens or other assessments on the property.

3. Determine your ability and desire to maintain the home. Do you have the time to handle the upkeep? Additionally, think about how you’ll manage the property in retirement if you’re unable to perform maintenance tasks yourself.

As you work through these actions, here are some additional considerations that come with the decision to sell, rent or keep the home:

SELL

Parting ways with a family home can be emotional – even when you know doing so is the right decision. Give yourself time to prepare the home for sale. This way you can sort through your loved one’s belongings and find closure at your own pace. When the time is right, a cleaning company, home staging services and a realtor can help you put the property on the market. If you make a profit on the sale, apply the money toward your financial goals. The extra sum can help make your goals of retirement, college tuition for grandkids or estate plans a reality. Selling the home has tax implications that vary by state, so talk to a tax professional for guidance.

RENT

If renting the home is appealing to you, research what the rental market is like in your area. Determine if a reasonable monthly rental price provides enough cash flow to cover upkeep costs. Hiring a management company to clean, make minor home repairs or manage the rental process may be attractive, particularly if the property is miles away from your primary residence. Additional tax considerations may apply depending on the number of days you use the home

versus rent the space to others. Consult a tax professional to understand if and how your tax situation may change. You should also determine whether the property is subject to rental restrictions related to local ordinances and home owners associations (HOAs).

KEEP

The ability to continue family traditions, have a future retirement space or a vacation getaway may make keeping the home the right decision for you. If you’re sharing ownership with a sibling or another family member, it’s critical to clearly communicate (ideally in writing) how you will split the financial and maintenance responsibilities. If you inherited the home outright, the choices are yours to make.

Consider the following financial steps as well:

•Purchase home insurance. If the property has a pool, trampoline, boat or other recreational items, you may need additional coverage.

•Save strategically for a remodel or upgrades if you want to adapt the home to suit your family’s lifestyle.

•Update your estate plan. If you intend to keep the home in your family for another generation or two, don’t wait to prepare your legal documents. Advance planning can help pass the property smoothly to your inheritors. Have a conversation with your beneficiaries so they know what to expect.

Making decisions after the loss of a loved one can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to take your time and ask for help with choices along the way. Guidance from a realtor, attorney and financial advisor may help you be thoughtful about how the inherited home fits into your lifestyle and financial plan.

Carrie A. McPherson, CRPS®, CDFA®, ChSNC® is a Financial Advisor and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst with BeaconPoint Wealth Advisors, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Providence, RI. She specializes in fee based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 13 years.

Please contact her at www.ameripriseadvisors.com/team/beacon-point-wealth-advisors or (401)824-2557, 1 Citizens Plaza Ste 610 Providence, RI 02903

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

© 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

What You Should Know About the Debt Ceiling Debate

By: Edward Pontarelli Jr.

If you’ve been keeping up on news coming out of Washington, D.C., you know that Congress is once again grappling with a need to raise the federal government’s debt ceiling limit. Legislation to that effect would provide the U.S. Treasury with authorization to issue new debt to help cover the costs of programs already approved by Congress. This is a typically routine action that avoids the U.S. defaulting on its loans. However, given the polarized political climate and hardened positions on both sides of the aisle, Congress so far has not negotiated an agreement to raise the debt ceiling by the summer deadline.

How could the issue play out and what are the possible ramifications for the financial markets?

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN WASHINGTON

The need for Congress to take action and increase the debt ceiling occurs periodically. This year, similar to prior instances, it has become a political matter with differing views on how to effectively solve the problem at hand.

If the debt ceiling is not raised on a timely basis, the federal government could default on its debt. This is significant as investors look upon U.S. Treasury bonds as debt securities that are backed by “the full faith and credit of the United States.” A default could tarnish that reputation, and potentially result in the government having to pay higher interest rates to attract bond investors.

At this point, the U.S. Treasury has reached its debt ceiling limit as previously authorized by Congress, and is undertaking “extraordinary measures” to avoid a debt default. Treasury officials indicate that these measures will likely be exhausted by June 2023. At that time, without Congress acting to raise the debt ceiling, a U.S. government default becomes a real possibility.

MARKETS MAINTAIN A WARY EYE

What would a debt default mean? In a speech on Feb. 14, 2023, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that in the longer term, a default would mean “Future investments, including public investments,

would become substantially more costly.” If interest rates on government bonds were forced higher, the impact could be felt across the bond market, pushing interest rates on other types of debt higher.

More directly, according to Yellen, “the federal government would be unable to issue payments to millions of Americans, including our military families and seniors who rely on Social Security.” Costlier borrowing could also reverberate to consumers as they obtain mortgages, car loans and other forms of debt.

Would this have a significant and extended negative effect on the economy? That’s an open question, but minimally we should expect that the longer the debate lingers and the closer the deadline draws near without resolution, we may face increased market volatility While you don’t want to overhaul your long-term financial plan based on speculation over how it will play out you may want to consult with your advisor about how to address potential, near-term ramifications that could be reflected in more volatile markets.

Please contact him at : www.ameripriseadvisors.com/team/beacon-point-wealth-advisors or (401)824-2532, 1 Citizens Plaza Ste 610 Providence, RI 02903 Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consu-

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

A Roth IRA is tax free as long as investors leave money in the account for at least 5 years and are 59 ½ or older when they take distributions or meet another qualifying event, such as death, disability or purchase of a first home.

Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, a registered investment adviser.

Edward Pontarelli Jr, APMA®, CRPC® is a Financial Advisor and Managing Director with BeaconPoint Wealth Advisors a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Providence, RI. He specializes in fee based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 20 years.

mers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Finetco Makes a Long-Term Investment to A Wish Come True, Inc.

Bill Finnegan and his family have been giving back to their community for decades. They recently announced a new partnership with A Wish Come True, Inc., that includes new space and a very generous investment in their future. AWCT will be moving into the Finetco office location at 6 Jefferson Dr. in Coventry, Rhode Island. (their former location was 1010 Warwick Ave, Warwick.)

“We outgrew our office space on Warwick Avenue, and the Finnegan’s have a more suitable facility,” said Executive Director Mary-Kate O’Leary. “They also have incredible space available for future growth, for an indoor and outdoor area to host Wish Families and events. We need a prominent ‘headquarters,’ and this building accomplishes those needs,” said O’Leary. Five staff will be moving to the new location.

A Wish Come True’s goal is to expand within a 50mile radius of their new office location, which will allow them to grow further towards Worcester in (Massachusetts), and eventually into Connecticut.

Finetco owns West Haven Lumber in West Haven, Connecticut, and there is potential office space available, if needed. A Wish Come True will also seek office space in Fall River, MA.

“For us to be successful, we must find local businesses and community partners that will help us grant wishes

to our local children and embrace these families as they need time to get back on their feet. Finetco is a great example of this type of partnership,” stated O’Leary.

Bill Finnegan, President and CEO of Finetco, joined the A Wish Come True Board of Directors in 2021. He is a major donor of Providence College Men’s Basketball and was connected to A Wish Come True by Steve Napolillo, the athletic director of Providence College. Bill came out of the gate thinking differently. He wanted his three sons—Sean, Ryan, and Evan— to serve on the Board, as Board Associates, gaining experience with nonprofits. Although the Finnegan’s have one vote on the Board, they are all very active in all the committees and events held by A Wish Come True.

“It is so exciting to have strong business leaders on the Board. Bill is known for asking lots of questions and is always looking out for the best interests of A Wish Come True,” stated Colleen Duffy, Board Chairwoman. “He sits on several Committees, including Finance, Investment, and Fundraising. Having his three sons on the Board has also been wonderful, as they all bring a different perspective to our business.”

Bill: Why were you excited to join the Board of A Wish Come True?

e Finnegan Family

“I was excited to be invited to join the AWCT Board, as I saw it as a very impactful organization helping local families in the most difficult periods of their lives. To imagine being able to invest time and effort and seeing firsthand the impact we are able to have on individuals, as well as their families, to lessen their burden somewhat was very important to me. It became a process that was important for my sons to be involved with. The fact that AWCT allowed our family to participate on the Board was very inviting.”

Bill: You and your family are making an incredible donation of $45,000 to A Wish Come True to increase their Investment Account. Why did you feel it was important to do this?

“My wife and I see the powerful impact AWCT has on families that are desperate for support and relief at a time none of us could imagine having to deal with. If we are able to assist in ensuring AWCT is in the best position, they can be for many years to come. We could not be prouder to be a small part of it.”

Bill: What do you want your family legacy to be?

“We really do not think about any ‘Legacy.’ I would hope if there is any thought given to us, it is that we were a very hard working family that did reasonably well and we were committed to our community and wanted to help whenever we could. Having multiple members of our family involved ensures it will be a multigenerational belief in our family and continue for many years to come.”

Bill: Are you excited to have A Wish Come True as partners in your building?

“Everyone at Finetco is excited to have AWCT move into our corporate office. We are confident it will create an upbeat atmosphere and undoubtedly gain some additional interest in AWCT and support to help our cause. The few small interactions our staff has had with AWCT was already well received. I am sure there will be many benefits as we move forward.”

Evan: What is it like to serve on the Board of Directors and how do you get involved?

“Serving on the Board of Directors is fulfilling, eye opening, and has been a very special experience.

Every meeting, event, and wish we grant has taught me something to improve myself, for the better. Everyone at AWCT is so genuine with the common goal to help families during their toughest challenges. Seeing the impact AWCT has on these families motivates me to continue to do whatever I can to give back to the community. Growing up in a family that has been supportive of our community has shown me the importance of giving back. Me and my family are fortunate to be able to support AWCT and to be on the Board. In addition to the meetings, some of the events I have been involved with were the Gala, Polar Plunge, Wish Dance, and golf tournaments. At these events, we raised money, which is then used to grant wishes for our families. If anyone is looking to support a great cause, we ask that you attend one of our events, and you will be amazed at what can happen when people come together. We all feel AWCT is a fantastic organization and I look forward to seeing them in our building every day!”- Evan

Finnegan

Finetco is the base for four lumber yards along the I-95 corridor. is includes Coventry Lumber in Coventry, Rhode Island, E.L. Morse Lumber in Wareham, Massachusetts, Welco in West Haven, Connecticut and West Haven Lumber in West Haven, Connecticut. e Finetco locations have built a reputation on the ability to “provide our customers with quality products and professional service”. ese values have allowed our company to grow and expand our product lines to include windows, doors, kitchens, engineered lumber and more. ey are a “full service” lumberyard providing prompt service throughout a large service area. What has remained consistent is their commitment to quality, service and competitive pricing. is devotion has allowed for continued growth and expansion.

Contact Person: Bill Finnegan 401-562-0177

A Wish Come True is the oldest wish granting organization in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Since 1982, they have granted magical wishes to children. In 2019, they expanded resources to include granting wishes and providing resources to families that have a child with a life threatening illness living in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Heather Paris Will Teach You How To Fix Your Relationships!

By Mark Berger

Relationships are hard on various levels. In business, there are many factors that can either make or break a partnership. The one main factor is trust. Without trust, there is little hope of that relationship working out. Deals are brokered on the condition that all sides are getting a fair shake.

The same thing can be said of personal relationships. Two people enter an agreement in hopes that each side will contribute to the partnership equally, or as close to equal as possible. If one person is dominating the relationship, then feelings of resentment, anger, or worse can fester and be acted out in some very unpleasant ways.

Before any of that happens, one Warwick-based entrepreneur has a solution that has garnered favorable results. Heather Paris is a Relationship Educator and Coach, and has a wealth of knowledge in helping couples achieve serenity together. She is NOT a therapist and avoids the “he said/she said game of blame and shame.”

Instead, she uses lived experience and education to cut to the chase with couples who are struggling.

“I don’t need to know who is to blame, because in the end, both parties share the blame,” said Paris, who has spoken at length nationally and has written extensively on the topic. “There are many signs that a relationship is in trouble, and people may be blind to them. The biggest obstacle I have found is the lack of proper commu-

nication between the couple. Without being completely honest with one other, then there is little chance the partnership will survive.”

Paris noted that while vulnerable communication is a major component to bliss, there are other things to work towards. She goes on to say that, “your relationship is not a group project,” and advises couples to lean in on one another rather than turning against each other by taking their problems to friends. Paris also believes that your family is your family, and your work is not your family.

“Your co-workers are not the people who will be by your side in times of crisis,” she said.

We spoke about red flags in relationships, and Paris says that couples are rarely prepared for what happens when they have children.

“When the babies come, some parents will stop prioritizing their relationship. While this may sound right, without the relationship, you may be jeopardizing the child’s future stability. I teach parents how to stay connected and on the same page after they become parents for the health and wellbeing of the entire family unit.”

“Your partner should be your best friend and a priority over anyone else,” she said. “If he or she is not that person, then you might be with the wrong person! All people need to feel wanted and important in each other’s life. Praising one another can go a long way toward making your partner feel valued.”

Paris said she has seen many relationships die a slow death simply because the couple did not take the time to praise one another, be playful together, and treat one another with kindness and respect.

Paris uses her own relationship experiences to help others. She had been married several times, so she decided to learn how to make it work before entering into another relationship. She researched current trends, became a certified coach through Anthony Robbins, read thousands of books, then created a step by step system so couples could repair their damaged relationship. Then, she met the love of her life, Thad, and they have been happily married for 13 years.

Currently, Paris is back in school finishing her Masters in Social Work. She is also a best-selling author. Her book, Live Inspired Now: A Field Guide for Happiness., inspires others with personal stories and success tips. She also wrote a children’s book with the illustrations done by a friend of hers who passed away from cancer. Paris said she self- published the children’s book, I Have A Guardian Angel, in her friend Carrie’s memory to get her art work into the world. These and other books may be found on Amazon and on her website.

Heather Paris also holds Relationship Repair seminars that aid couples who are struggling. One gentleman who recently attended said, “My wife dragged me to this class, but I am

very glad she did! Thank you for not blaming, but instead teaching us what to do to feel loved and connected again!”

Paris said people who follow her lead are likely to thank her later.

“I don’t have a magic wand that will make your problems disappear, but I will give you the tools to overcome them, and I will stand by you every step of the way. I’ve been helping people for 20-plus years. Don’t continue to suffer, reach out today!” she said.

If you are getting married, or believe your relationship could use a quick assessment, then Heather would like to encourage you to schedule a 15-minute discovery call with her. She can get a feel for what the issues are and if she thinks you would benefit from working with her.

For more details about Heather and her work, please call her at 607-592-6291 or email: heather@liveinspirednow.com

Also, visit liveinspirednow.com for additional information.

Ask An Expert

My name is Tom Lopatosky. I’m the President of LOPCO Contracting (www.LopcoContracting.com) & I’m honored to have the opportunity to talk to you about home improvement on a monthly basis. I love answering your questions! Please send them to tom@LopcoContracting.com or call 401-270-2664. Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this column!

Trapping Mildew Between Product Coatings

ere is a scene in the classic original ‘ e Karate Kid’ (1984) movie where Daniel (Ralph Macchio) is being coached by Mr. Miyagi (Pat Morita) through an exercise which Daniel believes is pointless at the time. Daniel was shown by Mr. Miyagi a technique in which he should be stroking the brush when painting a house. As the scene moves on, Daniel is visibly frustrated as he believes that the exercise is simply a way for Mr. Miyagi to cheaply get his house painted vs. having any real value in Daniel’s karate training. ese annoyances are soon squashed as Mr. Miyagi con dently walks Daniel through a demonstration of the value in the repetitive motions of the painting process and connects the dots as to how one has to do with the other.

While Daniel’s concerns may have been instantaneously quelled by Mr. Miyagi’s impressive show of what one had to do with the other (you have to see the movie to “get it”), my innards cringe every time I see the scene. ough I do understand the value Mr. Miyagi was teaching, the painting genes embodied within my soul go absolutely bonkers as I watch Daniel paint directly over a mildew-covered house! is is about as big a ‘NO NO!!’ of a scenario as one could put together.

Prior to any exterior paint job that we take on, we clean the outside of the building with what we call a ‘so wash’ process. is method is designed to clean the surface that it is being used on without damaging any of the substrate and without compromising whatever remaining integrity there is in the existing coating structure (i.e. – paint chips are not blown all over the neighborhood). Properly cleaning these surfaces ensures that any mildew or mold is NOT trapped in between any paint or stain coatings.

In watching this referred to scene, as methodically as Daniel works to apply the paint in the manner which Mr. Miyagi guided him to do so, my insides turn inside out every time I watch it as brush stroke a er brush stroke, Daniel applies the product directly over the mildew infested surface.

Even worse, from afar at least, it appears that the product being applied is an oil product over an oil product (which would make sense given the period of time). Because mildew parti-

cularly feeds o the properties of oil-based paints and stains, Daniel is unknowingly creating a mildew sandwich time bomb (oil coating, mildew covered surface, a coating of oil on top).

Once this type of scenario takes place, the mildew becomes trapped between product coatings.

Recently I visited with a client who had a mildew-covered, polyurethane-coated front porch ceiling. With clear coatings, this type of situation is more visible than with more solid colors. If the polyurethane ceiling is cleaned with a mildew cleaning agent and the mildew comes o , the client is golden. If the mildew does not come o , then at that point the mildew is surely trapped in between coatings and the only way to solve the issue (outside of replacing the actual ceiling boards) is to strip o the coatings and start from scratch.

Not only is mildew unsightly, but with trapping mildew, mold, etc. in between coatings, even if mildew-resistant products and mildew inhibitors are used in subsequent coatings on top, it is only a matter of time before the mildew returns because mildew & mold beget mildew & mold. Again, the only way to solve the situation at this point (without replacing the substrate itself) is to strip all the coatings and start from a clean surface.

Clearly, these are situations that can be avoided if the proper steps are taken as one is working through the project from the beginning.

It would not surprise me if within a year, the house that Daniel begrudgingly painted was covered in mildew and mold all over again. As disheartening as this is for me to envision, perhaps Mr. Miyagi is well aware of what most likely will occur and has some type of advanced training technique up his sleeve for Daniel to embark in a year a erward, as he is now forced to strip the coatings o the house to rid it of its mildew.

Knowing Mr. Miyagi’s brilliance in the way he operated moving about things, it would not surprise me at all if this were the case.

About Tom Lopatosky

Tom Lopatosky has run his own RI-based painting and repair business since 1995; LOPCO Contracting – the “Personable, Particular Professionals” – specializes in exterior & interior painting and carpentry. Recently LOPCO Contracting was named ‘RI’s Finest Painting Contracting Company’ by ShopInRI Magazine. In 2013, Tom was named “Humanitarian of the Year” by the Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA) and a “40 Under 40” award winner by Providence Business News. He is a member of both PCA (Painting Contractors Association) and RIBA (Rhode Island Builders Association). Tom has often had weekly ‘Home Improvement Tips’ that have aired on the radio on 630 WPRO AM and on television on WPRI 12. You can catch Tom LIVE on the radio EVERY Saturday, 2pm-3pm, on 630 WPRO AM (99.7 FM) during his weekly ProTalk Home Improvement Radio Show!

Celebrating Mom on Mother’s Day

By Julia Romano

Mother’s Day is a special day dedicated to honoring and appreciating all the incredible mothers and mother figures in our lives. It is celebrated on different dates around the world, but most commonly falls on the second Sunday in May. Mother’s Day is a time to recognize the sacrifices, love, and care that mothers provide to their children and families.

The history of Mother’s Day can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman cultures, where people celebrated spring festivals in honor of maternal goddesses. However, the modern-day celebration of Mother’s Day was first established in the United States by Anna Jarvis in the early 20th century. Jarvis wanted to create a day to honor her mother, who had dedicated her life to serving others. She started a campaign to make Mother’s Day an official holiday, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation designating the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day.

Since then, Mother’s Day has become a widely celebrated holiday around the world. People often express their appreciation and love for their mothers by giving gifts, flowers, and cards. Many families also gather together for meals or activities to spend quality time with their mothers.

While Mother’s Day is often associated with celebrating biological mothers, it’s important to remember that motherhood takes many forms. It includes adoptive mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, and other mother figures who provide love, support, and care to children. Some people also use this day to honor the memory of their mothers who have passed away.

In addition to celebrating mothers, Mother’s Day is also an opportunity to raise awareness about the challenges that mothers face around the world. Many mothers struggle with poverty, access to healthcare, and education. In some countries, maternal mortality rates are still unacceptably high. By bringing attention to these issues, we can work towards creating a better world for mothers and their children.

In conclusion, Mother’s Day is a special day to show appreciation and love for all the amazing mothers and mother figures in our lives. Whether it’s through a simple gesture or a grand celebration, taking the time to recognize the sacrifices and care that mothers provide is an important tradition.

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Dog Facts You Didn’t Know

• A dog’s nose has about 4 times as many scent cells as a cat’s and 14 times more than a human’s. at’s why dogs are o en used to track down illegal drugs and missing persons. ey can sni out their dinner from any room in the house!

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• With patience and understanding you can teach any old dog new tricks, depending on what you are trying to teach, or un-teach the dog, which is usually more di cult. Dogs can learn at any age, and like humans, it’s just old habits that are hard to break!

• According to a recent survey, the most popular name for a dog is Max. Other popular names include Molly, Sam, Zach, and Maggie.

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• An estimated 1 million dogs in the United States have been named the primary bene ciary in their owner’s will.

• Contrary to popular belief, dogs do not sweat by salivating. ey sweat through the pads of their feet.

• Dogs can alert their owners of an epileptic seizure up to an hour before it occurs.

• Walt Disney’s family dog was named Lady. She was a poodle.

• e heaviest dog ever weighed 319 pounds.

• e oldest dog ever died at age 29.

e well-known animal authority advises horse owners to allow their other equines to see the deceased before it’s removed or buried because animals understand death and need to mourn the passing.

“Unfortunately, I have had to use my own advice more o en than I cared to,” she concluded. “Being that their lifespan is thirty years or more, you develop a close relationship with them and it’s devastating when they die.”

What’s Up With That?

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In 1997, Bill Gates invested $150 million in Apple so the company wouldn’t go bankrupt.

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Just the smell of co ee has a placebo e ect that can increase focus and feelings of ambition.

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WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

One McDonald’s hamburger can contain meat from 100 di erent cows.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

It takes 50 glasses of water to grow enough oranges to make one glass of orange juice.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

New York’s area code is 212 because it was the fastest number to dial on a rotary phone.

WHAT’S UP WITH THAT?

Roughly 49% of all Americans over the age of 20 consume one sandwich every day.

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Listening to music you enjoy causes your brain to release dopamine, boosting your mood, and making you feel good.

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40% of Americans believe humans and dinosaurs existed at the same time.

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Two tablespoons of honey would give a bee enough energy to y around the world.

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family,

“We speak for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

A Historic Year for Animal Rescue Rhode Island

Celebrating its 85th year with events and nostalgia.

By Mark Berger

Beginning in 1938 with one woman who had an idea and a cause, Animal Rescue Rhode Island (ARRI) has blossomed into South County’s go-to destination for people looking for adoptable pets and pet-related services.

The shelter’s beginning is rather unique.

The Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island began in 1934 when a group of concerned citizens from South Kingstown and Narragansett wanted to help stray pets in the community. The first membership dues were five cents each to help cover costs and ensure the animals would receive food and care.

The group was led by Avis Quigley, a pioneer in her day, who was the area dog warden – considered then to be a “man’s job”. Through all of her hardships, Avis was fiercely passionate about the well-being of animals. She was known to say, “I don’t just look for great homes, but excellent ones.” She was a champion of humane education and would bring children to the shelter and educate the public on how to care for animals. She even adopted five dogs and 13 cats over the years!

Pets at ARRI come from owners unable to keep them, other in-state shelters that are full, and overcrowded shelters in the south. “Our facility houses up to 20 dogs and 35 cats at a time. In fact, we’ve saved more than 4,000 animals in just the last 12 years through our Bark and Ride transport program,” said Marcia Izzi, Board Chair. The sta works diligently to locate loving homes for all of them.

All animals coming from out of state must spend five days in isolation, in accordance with state regulations. One such recent arrival was “Patches,” a six-monthold hound dog who was found to have a growth on his leg. It was determined to be melanoma. Patches received the necessary treatment, and his prognosis is very good. Despite the medical expenses climbing into the thousands of dollars, Izzi said it was the right thing to do.

“ARRI goes to any length to make sure the pets in our care get everything they need for a second chance with a new family, ” she said.

The initial facility was a barn owned by Avis, and that eventually became a small concrete shelter which was used for decades. Ten years ago, a capital campaign enabled ARRI to plan a new shelter, which opened in 2015 on Quigley’s original property. At the same time, its name was changed from Animal Rescue League of Southern Rhode Island to Animal Rescue Rhode Island, re ecting its statewide connections. From its humble beginnings in a barn, ARRI now has a 7,000 sq.ft. state-of-the-art facility.

Animal Rescue Rhode Island has a knowledgeable sta to lend their support and answer any questions. “We see ourselves as an animal welfare organization that operates a shelter,” said Liz Skrobisch, Executive Director. “In addition to adoptions, ARRI also runs other very active programs as we have become a resource to the broader RI community. Our community pet pantry, which relies on donations and is run by volunteers, provides pet food across the state to pet owners experiencing financial challenges. Last year, we provided more than 50,000 pet meals for at least 850 pets, with the goal of keeping those pets in homes

where they’re loved. We can focus on our lifesaving work by finding families for animals needing homes, while simultaneously helping to keep pets and their current families together.”

ARRI also o ers its Animal Scholars program, a collection of presentations designed for children of all ages. Programs are available in schools, libraries, camps, and Scout meetings. From teaching kids about pet responsibility and about the wildlife in RI, to teaching them how to stay safe around the dogs in their lives, ARRI is committed to educating the next generation as it works to build a humane community.

This year marks 85 years of saving lives for ARRI. To celebrate this milestone, the organization has several events happening to raise awareness and funds to continue their programs. ARRI does not receive any federal or state funding; its primary sources of revenue are donations, grants, and fundraising events.

On Thursday, June 1, ARRI will be holding a Beach Bash at the Galilee Beach Club, celebrating 85 years of saving lives. The event is from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and everyone is invited.

“Rain or shine, we’ll have food and drink, ra es and

music in a gorgeous waterfront setting,” said Jeanine Conrady, Director of Development. “Everyone’s invited to our party!”

Ticket and sponsorship information can be found under the “Events” tab at www.animalrescueri.org.

Coming up on September 23rd is the 12th Annual “Bark on the Beach” at Narragansett Town Beach from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This event includes food, music, contests, and goody bags for all attendees. Last year’s Bark on the Beach was attended by approximately 200 walkers, both with and without dogs, and raised more than $31,000.

“This is one of our favorite events,” said Conrady. “It’s our chance to connect with the community and see some of the dogs who are ARRI alums. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

The shelter is hoping to raise even more funds this year, to keep up with rising costs. Sponsorships are available.

For more details, please visit the website at www. animalrescueri.org, call them at 401-783-7606, or email development@animalrescueri.org.

Avis Quigley

Pre-Qualify for a New Vehicle at Toyota of Smithfield!

By Mark Berger

Finding either new or certified, pre-owned vehicles these days can be difficult. There are few options and such high demand that it takes longer than normal. Once you find that vehicle, however, the process of financing should be easy.

That is why Toyota of Smithfield enables its customers to apply for financing directly from their website. Their approach centers around catering to their consumer’ needs. One factor is time: few people want to invest an entire day discussing how they are paying for their car or truck.

General Manager John Durrani said that the point is for the customers to be in the driver’s seat.

“The old way of doing business as it relates to buying and selling cars has changed dramatically,” he said. “People are more educated and understand what their budgets will allow for and what other amenities they want. Our goal is to get customers into their new vehicles as smoothly as possible.”

By visiting the dealership’s website at www.toyotaofsmithfield.com, anyone can access the program and go through the process at their own pace. They can also contact the finance department directly at (401) 341-1616 with any questions.

While visiting the website, anyone can browse through their inventory, discover which car they want, determine their trade-in value, financing options, and choose how they will receive their vehicle (either at the dealership or delivered to their doorstep).

“The pricing is not a trick or a gimmick,” said Durrani. “Our pricing is what the customer pays, without hidden fees. They won’t be surprised by the numbers.” “We are proud to offer this service and be the preferred dealership in the region,” he said. “It’s another way for us to bring our services and ‘Peace of Mind Purchase Process’ to our customers and to establish life-long relationships.”

Toyota of Smithfield is also offering college graduates a $500 rebate on all new unlicensed Toyota models when they either finance or lease through a Toyota dealer and Toyota Financial Services.

The dealership will hold its monthly private sale. This month’s event takes place on Saturday, May 27, and Sunday, May 28, from 10:00 AM until 6:00 PM, by appointment only. Those who attend will be expected to follow social guidelines, but also have access to their inventory. Managers will be there to answer questions and to offer additional incentives.

The Dealership’s Peace of Mind Purchase Process means no hassles over pricing, trade-in values, cash back and rebate incentives offered up front, and the best available leasing and financing terms, up front. Durrani said that this is just part of the all-around, customer-driven experience he implemented to ensure the process does not get bogged down in miscommunication.

Schedule an appointment by calling them 401-723-0962, or on their website at www.toyotaofsmithfield.com

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THIS ON YOUR OWN.

A hot pan left unattended on the stove started a fire that not only destroyed the kitchen pictured above, but also spread toxic smoke, sticky soot, and other residues throughout every room in the house. A furnace puffback at another property belched smoke and soot throughout the home via its air duct system, coating walls, ceilings, floors — just about everything inside — with oily, black grime.

Almost as bad as the flames from a fire, smoke, soot, and other toxic residue left behind by these types of property disasters need to be cleaned away quickly before even more damaging effects can develop.

Eliminating smoke and soot residue is one of the most difficult aspects of disaster restoration and to safely minimize further damage, these substances must be strictly handled by specially trained restoration professionals, like Rhode Island Restoration.

Expertly trained in soot and smoke removal as well as water damage and full building reconstruction and repair, both homes were quickly and thoroughly cleaned and then fully restored to their pre-disaster conditions within weeks — much to the relief of the grateful homeowners. Rhode Island Restoration — Ready. Rapid. Reliable.

We Can Help You Design The Kitchen of Your Dreams